During India’s World Cup 2023 match against Bangladesh, a significant controversy unfolded as Virat Kohli, the Indian batting superstar, approached a century during a run chase. The controversy stemmed from a crucial moment involving the umpire’s decision.
Umpire’s Decision
Umpire Richard Kettleborough’s decision took center stage when Kohli was at the crease with a score of 97. India needed just two runs to secure victory. Kohli had comfortably secured a single on the first ball of the 39th over, and KL Rahul returned the strike to him.
Kohli’s Pursuit
In the following overs, the focus shifted from being a regular India-Bangladesh match to a showdown centered around Kohli and his quest for a century. The tension was palpable as India required only two runs to win the game.
The Controversial Delivery
At this critical juncture, Kohli, just three runs shy of his century, received a delivery down the leg side from Bangladesh’s left-arm spinner, Nasum Ahmed. The delivery prompted a displeased and intense reaction from Kohli, who felt the ball was unfairly not signaled as a wide.
The Umpire’s Decision Questioned
Umpire Richard Kettleborough’s choice not to signal the delivery as a wide ball came under scrutiny. Replays indicated that it was indeed a wide, and Kettleborough, upon seeing the replay on the big screen, appeared to acknowledge his error by shaking his head.
Ambiguity in ICC Rules
The controversy surrounding the wide ball decision shed light on the ambiguity and uncertainty within ICC rules and regulations. According to these rules, a wide will apply to where the batter is standing or where the striker has stood at any point since the bowler began their run-up. However, the interpretation of this rule remains a subject of debate.
Kohli’s Century
Following this controversial incident, on the next delivery, Nasum bowled a full toss to Kohli, who seized the opportunity and hit a six to complete his 48th ODI century with an unbeaten 103 runs. India went on to win the game comprehensively by 7 wickets, marking their fourth consecutive victory in the World Cup 2023.
